Mapping of sex work hotspots to guide targeted HIV prevention: Evidence from eight Ukrainian cities

This study provides comprehensive mapping of sex work hotspots in Ukraine, revealing persistent gaps in HIV prevention for less visible and harder-to-reach SWs. Community-led mapping achieved high validation rates (86.8%) and identified substantial unmet needs in digital and concealed hotspots. Routine hotspot mapping, combined with engagement with SW communities, is essential for data-driven, equitable, and adaptive HIV responses in rapidly changing contexts.

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Publication Details

Journal
PLoS ONE
Published
2026-02-26
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0343803
Primary Topic
Sex work and related issues
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00

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article

Mapping of sex work hotspots to guide targeted HIV prevention: Evidence from eight Ukrainian cities

Olga Cheshun, Kostyantyn Dumchev, Oksana Pashchuk, Oksana Kovtun
PLoS ONE
Sex work and related issues
article

Mapping of sex work hotspots to guide targeted HIV prevention: Evidence from eight Ukrainian cities

Olga Cheshun, Kostyantyn Dumchev, Oksana Pashchuk, Oksana Kovtun
article en

Abstract

This study provides comprehensive mapping of sex work hotspots in Ukraine, revealing persistent gaps in HIV prevention for less visible and harder-to-reach SWs. Community-led mapping achieved high validation rates (86.8%) and identified substantial unmet needs in digital and concealed hotspots. Routine hotspot mapping, combined with engagement with SW communities, is essential for data-driven, equitable, and adaptive HIV responses in rapidly changing contexts.

PLoS ONEVol. 21(2)
National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy (UA), Alliance for Public Health (UA)
U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Good health and well-being
Openalex Percentile: Top 48%
Sex work and related issues
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